Comrade Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje is the National Coordinator of Disciples of Jagaban (DOJ), which supported the 2023 presidential ambition of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In this interview with NOAH EBIJE in Kaduna, Alawuje recounted how his group campaigned for the presidential victory of Tinubu in 2023 in the national interest.
He insisted that contrary to insinuations in some quarters, the North would vote Tinubu again in 2027.
Your group, Disciples of Jagaban (DOJ) campaigned for President Tinubu in the last election. Would you do the same in 2027?
Yes, we will work for his re-election. In the realm of Nigerian politics, many groups have emerged to champion the cause of leaders they believe in. Among these, some have been at the forefront, advocating and pushing for change even before the official endorsements and political maneuvers began. We proudly count ourselves among this pioneering group, having initiated the Tinubu struggle long before any other organisation. Our journey began during the inauguration of President Muhammadu Buhari’s second term in office, at Eagle Square, Abuja. We officially launched our movement at the venue, setting the stage for what would become a widespread and influential campaign. At that time, our group was unique, not just in our mission but in our inclusiveness. Many of the leaders who today head some of the leading groups supporting Tinubu were initially members of our platform – DOJ. They know the foundations we laid. It is important to clarify that when we started this movement, Bola Ahmed Tinubu didn’t know us and didn’t send us to work for him. There was no personal relationship between him and our group at that time. Instead, our motivation stemmed from a deep appreciation of his previous achievements and his unwavering commitment to democracy and leadership. As a Senator representing Lagos Central in 1992, and later as the Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, his impact was profound. His governance set a standard for others to follow, and his visionary leadership transformed Lagos into a model for other states. But beyond his term in office, what stood out for us was his dedication to the political growth of those around him. After he ended his two-term as governor, Tinubu did not retreat from the political scene. Instead, he took on the role of a mentor, a political father, who believed in the potential of his protégés. He pushed his political allies forward, ensuring they reached greater heights, even beyond what he had achieved – such as Vice President, ministers and so on. This selfless act of nurturing future leaders resonated deeply with us, reinforcing our belief in his vision for Nigeria. Our group saw in Tinubu a leader who embodied the qualities of a true political father—a leader who is not threatened by the success of his subordinates but rather takes pride in their achievements. His belief in the progress of his political “boys” and “ladies” is a testament to his commitment to the future of our country.
As we reflect on our journey, we remain proud of the role we have played in the Tinubu struggle. We were not motivated by personal gains or direct instructions from Tinubu himself. Instead, we were driven by a shared vision of what Nigeria could become under his leadership, considering the legacy he has built.
Today, as more groups join the cause, it is essential to remember those who laid the groundwork. We may not always be in the spotlight, but our contributions are undeniable.
There are permutations that some Northern politicians want to wrest power back to the North in 2027 because they felt disappointed by Tinubu’s leadership which allegedly does not favour the region that gave him majority votes in 2023 election. What would you say to this?
In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian politics, it is crucial to scrutinise the motivations and alliances shaping the future of the nation. Recently, there have been growing concerns about opposition forces and desperate politicians from various regions, including the North, who are determined to undermine the current administration before the 2027 elections. But it is obvious these factions, within and outside the ruling party, are driven by personal agenda rather than genuine concerns for national progress. Having been deeply involved in the Northern politics for over two decades, I can attest that the narrative of betrayal within the North is overly simplistic. Many of us in the political sphere recognize that the Northern region remains steadfast in its commitment to the nation’s stability and progress. In this wise, I can bet you that this commitment extends to supporting President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. The current members of the opposition, which include some who feel excluded from the corridors of power, are leveraging their positions to destabilise the government. Their efforts are less about advancing Northern interests and more about addressing their own grievances and failures.
Tinubu is one year and some months in office. Would you say your group has been rewarded for the 2023 campaign you did for him?
It is undeniable that the Disciples of Jagaban (DOJ) made an indelible impact across the nation. Our group has been physically present in at least 27 states before the formation of emergence of other support groups. By 2020, we had successfully expanded our reach, covering the remaining nine states, including the Federal Capital Territory. However, to be sincere, our efforts have not yet been fully rewarded. We understand that there are many others who also need attention, and we patiently await our turn, knowing that in due cause, our contributions will be appropriately recognised and adequately rewarded.
What actually would you like Tinubu to do for your group?
Our group is filled with technocrats, responsible men and women, and vibrant youths who are more than capable of serving the nation in various capacities, but the reward system has been very poor. Therefore, we respectfully request that the government engages some of our members on meaningful assignments across the country. This will not only recognise their past contributions but also allow them to continue to serve the nation effectively. Nonetheless, our loyalty remains absolute and unwavering.
How would you like to score Tinubu’s performance so far?
The Tinubu administration is undertaking significant reforms aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s ailing systems. These reforms, though challenging and sometimes unpopular, are designed to address deep-rooted issues and set a foundation for sustainable growth. Real change requires making tough choices that may cause short-term discomfort but are crucial for long-term improvement. While the immediate effects of these reforms might be harsh, it is essential to understand that such measures are often necessary to correct systemic problems. The Tinubu government, despite facing criticism, is working with a vision to steer Nigeria towards a more functional and prosperous future. Recognising the need for sacrifices and understanding the rationale behind hard decisions can provide a more balanced view of the administration’s efforts and intentions.
There was a nationwide protest recently against this government because of hardship and hunger. What role did your group play in this protest?
Our organization has been at the forefront of addressing these challenges and managing the situation with a sense of responsibility and respect for our communities. DOJ comprises a remarkable array of leaders, including former deputy governors, senators, and members of the House of Representatives, Retired military Generals and other retired military senior officers across the country, I was only pushed forward as a retired military man and a political machine to lead the group, respected and listened to by their respective communities. These leaders have played a crucial role in guiding their communities through these turbulent times. They have worked tirelessly to engage with those who genuinely protested out of hunger and deprivation, providing them with much-needed support and reassurance. During the protests, DOJ members made significant efforts to calm the unrest among those protesting out of genuine need. They facilitated dialogues, addressed grievances, and worked to mitigate the effects of the economic challenges faced by many. Their leadership and intervention were instrumental in preventing further escalation of the situation. However, despite these efforts, it is important to acknowledge that there were elements within the protests driven by external forces with ulterior motives.
Terrorism, kidnapping, and insecurity generally are on the rise across the country. But some Nigerians are saying President Tinubu inherited the situation from former President Muhammadu Buhari. Is that an excuse?
As an experienced security professional with both national and international experience, I believe that the efforts of the current National Security Adviser (NSA), Army chiefs, and the Inspector General of Police deserve acknowledgment and appreciation. No nation has fully eradicated terrorism and insecurity; these issues are pervasive and often manifest as guerrilla warfare, which is notoriously difficult to defeat entirely. In this context, the current administration’s approach to security should be viewed through a realistic lens. The National Security Adviser, Nuru Ribadu, has been instrumental to advancing numerous goals and achieving significant milestones in his role. His efforts, along with those of the Army and the Police leadership, have contributed to various successes in the fight against insecurity. Comparing the achievements of the current government in the security sector with those of previous administrations, including the governments of President Goodluck Jonathan and President Muhammadu Buhari, might not provide a fair assessment. Each administration has faced its unique challenges and threats, and the effectiveness of their strategies must be evaluated within the context of their time. It is essential for Nigerians to recognize and appreciate the ongoing efforts and sacrifices made by our security personnel.
President Tinubu has been accused by some Nigerians of nepotism in his administration. What is your reaction to this?
Constitutionally, every Nigerian state has a right to fair representation in various government appointments. However, the President of Nigeria also has the responsibility to appoint individuals who are trusted and capable to address specific challenges effectively. Given that a significant proportion of Nigeria’s security challenges are concentrated in the Northern region, it is understandable that many top security positions are held by individuals from this region. This arrangement is not inherently flawed; rather, it reflects the need for experienced and knowledgeable personnel who can tackle region-specific issues. Key security roles such as the National Security Adviser (NSA), Ministers of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, and the Chief of Air Staff are critical in shaping the nation’s security strategy. The leadership of these positions, predominantly from the North, is aimed at leveraging their understanding of regional dynamics to enhance security measures. Concerns about nepotism often arise when expectations for specific outcomes are not met. The focus should be on evaluating the effectiveness and competence of individuals in these roles, rather than their regional origins.
Tinubu is also accused of harsh economic policies, especially the removal of fuel subsidies, which has caused inflation in the country. What is your reaction?
In Nigeria, the issue of fuel subsidies has been a significant and contentious topic for years. It has not only been a drain on national resources but has also contributed to the failure of various administrations. The fundamental question that arises is whether continuing with this subsidy is sustainable or even justifiable given the current economic climate. The permanent removal of fuel subsidies is a necessary step towards economic reform in Nigeria. The current system is unsustainable and fails to serve its intended purpose. It is crucial for the government to re-strategize, ensuring that the removal of subsidies is accompanied by measures to cushion the impact on citizens. Only through responsible governance and accountability at all levels can Nigeria hope to navigate these challenges and achieve long-term economic stability. Though, fuel subsidies in Nigeria have long been touted as a means of alleviating the cost burden on ordinary citizens. However, the reality is starkly different. A significant portion of the subsidized fuel is diverted to neighbouring countries, where it is sold at market prices.
Rather than perpetuating a system that primarily benefits a small, influential segment of society, the government should consider reallocating resources to more beneficial subsidies. These could include areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, which have the potential to enhance the quality of life for the majority of Nigerians. However, to earn the trust of the populace, transparent communication about the reasons for subsidy removal and the planned use of savings is essential. Additionally, state governors need to play a more active role in addressing local economic issues rather than relying solely on federal interventions.
Some political pundits and economic analysts have faulted the distribution of palliatives by this government, saying it is not the solution to a bad economy. Do you agree?
We must understand that the temporary measures are only crucial for providing immediate relief, they are not a long-term solution to the challenges at hand. The palliative efforts only serve as a necessary stopgap, offering immediate assistance while more sustainable solutions are being developed. However, the effectiveness of these palliatives must be complemented by proactive steps towards creating enduring economic improvements. One of the most impactful strategies is the development of job opportunities. Moreover, creating a conducive environment for private businesses is equally critical. This includes investing in infrastructure, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and ensuring that the regulatory environment is favourable for business growth.
What words of advice do you have for Nigerians generally especially over the state of the nation?
In challenging times, it’s crucial to address the realities of our national situation and support our leaders constructively. The pressing issues facing our country, particularly economic hardships, cannot be resolved by mere criticism or opposition. It’s important to recognize that no amount of well-intentioned advice can substitute for the fundamental need to address immediate concerns, such as putting food on the table for the hungry man. Distracting a government that is barely a year into its term is counterproductive. Every administration needs time and space to implement its plans and policies effectively. Our leaders have chosen their path and are focused on steering the country towards progress. Instead of obstructing their efforts, we should offer our support and constructive feedback.
